The Latest IRS Tax Scam

Our office has received numerous reports of the following:

Someone calls, identifies themselves as an IRS Agent, tells you that a lawsuit has been filed and that local authorities will be sent to your home if you do not make payment immediately.

At present, over 1.2 million have reported to the IRS that they’ve been targeted (in fact I received a call myself). And those are just the ones who have reported that they received such a call. Unfortunately, thousands have actually taken the bait and paid the amount demanded to avoid the perceived threat. Ask for their Agent Number, ask for details of the case, ask whatever other questions you feel like are appropriate but DO NOT agree to pay – THIS IS A SCAM.

The IRS recently announced that they had arrested 5 individuals in Miami for perpetrating this scam on taxpayers, resulting in 6,400 individuals paying them over $2.0 million. But it clearly hasn’t put an end to the scam as the calls continue – one of our clients received a call just last week.

Some things to keep in mind if you do receive a call. The IRS will NEVER:

• Call or email to demand immediate payment. The IRS will also not call about taxes without first mailing a bill.
• Demand that you pay a tax bill without giving you an opportunity to question the amount owed.
• Require that a specific payment method be used (like a prepaid debit card or money order).
• Ask for credit or debit card information over the phone or via email.
• Threaten to bring in local law-enforcement groups or have you arrested.

This scam is likely to run its course at some point but it’s highly likely that more will follow. So keep the items above in mind. And if you are concerned that there may be something real behind a demand for payment of taxes, give our office a call and we’ll help you sort it out. Call (480) 888-7111 or submit a web request here.